31 January 2008
PYROS TO HOST TEAM CANADA IN GLAMOUR FRIENDLY

Last Updated 31 Jan 2008

The game will take place at the Robertsons Sports Centre in Thornly Park, the Pyros home pitch, on 21st March, 2009 The two teams will be playing for the first annual Richard Little Trophy, dedicated to Pyros player Richard Little, who was tragically struck down by a car in April, 2008.

Team Canada is comprised of players from all over Canada; youths aged 18-22 from coast-to-coast compete through a fierce tryout to be selected to represent Canada in fixtures all over the world. They have travelled to Austria, Germany, Australia, England, and all around the USA to play games against the best young athletes these countries have to offer. They also have upcoming tours in Serbia, Holland/Belgium, Japan, and he Bahamas. They bring a high level of football that will be fun to watch and will certainly raise the profile of Scottish American Football in the UK as well as around the world. Pyros representative Tal Peer has said: “We are honoured to have the opportunity to host such an event and provide the people here in Paisley and all around Scotland with an entertaining game and to see this sport grow and develop in the community".

The game will feature a ceremony dedicated to player Richard Little, in honour of all he has done for the team and game he loves. Richard Little, who was born in Troon but was living in Barrhead, was one of the founding members when the Pyros when created in 2003. He wore the number 57, and played many positions; most notably Center, Defensive Line, and Middle Linebacker. Last season, Richard led the team in tackles and was also the acting President of the team. He has always been considered to be Mr.Pyro; he talked about the team all the time, and was extremely happy and proud to play a sport he loved with his good friends. His profile on the social networking site Bebo reads “I am happiest when i am Playing football for the Pyros. The only thing I am scared of is not being able to play football... I plan to die on the pitch making a game winning tackle, aged 57."

On the 12th of April, 2008, Richard was struck by a car on Barrhead road. He has been in hospital ever since, and has still not regained full function of his arms or legs. One of his vocal chords was also damaged in the accident and he has not even been able to speak. He remains in Southern General Hospital, in the spinal injuries unit, where he is visited daily by his friends and family. He still enjoys hearing about how the team he started, and how they are having such success, albeit without him.

The game will take place at The Robertsons Sports Centre at Thornly Park, with the opening ceremonies commencing at 1:00 PM. Entry is free at the gate and there will be food served, as well as hot drinks, and the opportunity to purchase Pyros Merchandise and Game Day Programmes.

If you have any questions about the event, please email us at pyroscommittee@hotmail.com